Keep pulling the thread on Chen Zhao.
Redfin predicts that mortgage rates will remain in the low sixes, around 6.2% to 6.3%, throughout 2026.
Redfin predicts that home prices will grow slower than wages in 2026, which is a necessary step for improving housing affordability.
In 2026, the strongest housing markets are expected to be in the suburbs of New York City and various metropolitan areas in the Midwest.
Housing markets in the Sunbelt, particularly in Florida and Texas, are predicted to remain weak throughout 2026.
Redfin predicts that in 2026, climate-related migration will primarily occur within local metro areas rather than between different cities or states.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is expected to allow local Multiple Listing Services (MLSs) to set more of their own rules.
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is predicted to shift its focus to spend more time on advocacy.
Redfin predicts that AI will increasingly be used as a "real estate matchmaker," helping people decide where to live and which homes to buy.
Redfin forecasts that existing home sales will reach 4.2 million in 2026, a slight increase from the 4.1 million expected in 2025.
Redfin predicts that rents will begin to increase slightly in the second half of 2026 due to slowing multifamily construction and higher rental demand.
Persistent housing affordability challenges are expected to cause more people to live with roommates and delay starting families.
Housing affordability is predicted to be a decisive issue in upcoming elections, which will prompt candidates to bring forward numerous serious policy proposals.